Skip to main content Skip to footer

Have you had your well water tested recently? Now it's even easier

Waterloo Region – It's estimated that less than 25 per cent of rural residents in Waterloo Region have their water tested annually. Provincial guidelines recommend that private well owners test their water at least three times per year to know if their drinking water is safe. Region of Waterloo Public Health is encouraging rural residents to have their water tested by increasing the frequency of water testing services in rural areas. Water testing services continue to be free.

Beginning in August 2013, six rural drop-off locations across Waterloo Region will accept water samples every Tuesday for testing. Public Health buildings at 99 Regina St. S (Waterloo) and 150 Main St. (Cambridge) will continue to accept water samples Monday through Thursday.

Approximately 9,000 rural households in Waterloo Region rely on private water sources such as wells for their drinking water. To ensure your drinking water is safe for consumption, you should test your water at least three times per year. Water containing bacteria (e.g. E. coli) or other contaminants may not taste or look different than normal.

Tips for keeping your drinking water safe:

  1. Keep potential contaminants away from your well by minimizing nearby activities such as farming practices or animal grazing
  2. Consider treating your water with a disinfection system using chlorination or ultraviolet light treatment devices
  3. Maintain your system by checking your equipment regularly

Information on wells, water sampling, and disinfection systems can be obtained from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Public Health Ontario, and the Ontario Ministry of Environment. For additional information see Public Health's website or call 519-575-4400 ext 5147 to talk with a Public Health Inspector.

 - 30 –

Media Contact: Candi Harrington, Coordinator, Marketing & Communications, 519-575-2244, caharrington@regionofwaterloo.ca